Trend Hunter Report: AI & Multisensation Create Deeper Connections with Consumers

January 4, 2020 | TrendHunter.com’s latest free monthly report for Toy Association members explores innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and the rise of interactive multi-sensory experiences.

“Our members are encouraged to use the findings and examples featured throughout this report to fuel innovation for future product development and to create more engaging experiences for their own consumers, from product to shelf,” said Anne McConnell, senior director of market research & data strategy at The Toy Association.

The “AI & Multisensation” report includes, among other topics:

• AI Board Game – AI is helping to enhance the player’s experience across popular board game offerings. Square Off created two chess board games, NEO and SWAP, which have magnetic sensor surfaces, offer personalized coaching, and utilize built-in AI technology to adjust to the players’ abilities as they play. X2 Games' St. Noire board game also integrates Amazon Alexa.
• Generative Design – Brands in various industries are relying on generative design, an AI program that creates a nearly infinite number of ideas based on specific data. Russian design firm artle bedev, for example, created an AI system dubbed 'Nikolay Ironov' that many believed was an actual person designing quirky, vibrant logos for influencers, apps, products, and other businesses.
• VR Fitness – As at-home workouts have become more commonplace, due to necessity and convenience, companies are incorporating VR into home fitness systems and experiences to keep consumers motivated and consistent. The Blync VR bike controller, for example, provides an interactive riding experience across an array of scenarios for avid cyclists, without them ever having to leave home.
• Super Charged Playlist – Brands are using tech, design, and art to develop curated multi-media playlists that create more personalized, multi-sensory experiences for listeners. Examples include Pandora Stories, a marketing tool for artists to intermix voice tracks with songs and albums, and BG Audio’s 'Augmented Audio' system on Kickstarter, which will allow users to listen to music alongside friends as the system pairs headphones with an app to promote social listening.

This report is the latest in a series from Trend Hunter offering in-depth perspectives and trends in various areas related to the toy industry and youth markets to help spark unique ideas. For additional relevant trends, toy companies can click on the report’s consumer insights examples, scroll down, and click the images for further information.

Members are encouraged to send topic suggestions for future Trend Hunter reports to The Toy Association’s Anne McConnell.

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